High-Protein Tiramisu-Inspired Overnight Pudding

If you love the flavors of tiramisu but want a simpler, higher-protein, lower-carb, and sugar-free option, this Tiramisu-Inspired Overnight Pudding is a delicious treat to try!

This easy recipe combines creamy vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla protein shake, chia seeds, and espresso for a delicious coffee-flavored pudding. A dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder on top gives it that classic tiramisu-inspired finish.

It comes together in just minutes and sets overnight in the refrigerator, making it a great option for an easy breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • ½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup vanilla protein shake of your choice
  • 1 teaspoon Nescafé Espresso
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for topping

Instructions

  1. Add the chia seeds, vanilla Greek yogurt, vanilla protein shake, and espresso to a bowl or container.
  2. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
  3. Sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder over the top.
  4. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  5. The next day, stir if desired and enjoy your delicious tiramisu-inspired protein pudding!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is:

  • High in protein
  • Low in carbohydrates
  • Sugar-free
  • Easy to prepare
  • Perfect for meal prep
  • A delicious way to satisfy a coffee and chocolate craving

The espresso and cocoa powder give this pudding those delicious tiramisu-inspired flavors, while the Greek yogurt and protein shake help make it a more protein-forward option.

Bariatric-Friendly Recipe Note

This is a simple recipe that can be enjoyed as part of a protein-forward lifestyle. As with any recipe, portion sizes and individual tolerance can vary, especially after bariatric surgery. Always follow the recommendations and guidance of your healthcare team.

If you try this recipe, I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious twist on tiramisu! ☕🍫💕

Celebrating 100 Subscribers with High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu!

I can hardly believe it—Bariatric Living with Lisa has reached 100 subscribers! 🎉💯

This may be my first 100 subscribers, but each and every one of them is incredibly special to me. I wanted to create a video that was more than just a recipe. I wanted to celebrate the people who have supported my channel and let them know how truly grateful I am.

To celebrate, I made a special High-Protein, Low-Carb Tiramisu! ☕🍫

A Special 100 Subscriber Celebration

For the video, I created a fun celebration setup with confetti falling over the words “100 Subscribers.” I also made a special dessert with the number 100 candles to mark this milestone.

Then I took everyone into the kitchen with me to make a healthier version of one of my favorite classic desserts: tiramisu!

After making the dessert, I returned to the celebration area for a taste test. It was such a fun way to celebrate this milestone with everyone who has supported my channel.

High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu

This tiramisu begins with homemade coconut-flour ladyfingers. The recipe combines separated eggs, sifted coconut flour, sweetener, vanilla, and whey protein powder to create the ladyfingers. The batter is carefully folded together to help preserve the air whipped into the egg whites before being piped and baked.

Once cooled, the ladyfingers are lightly flavored with espresso. Because coconut flour absorbs liquid quickly, they need to be handled carefully. The recipe recommends dipping them very quickly or drizzling the espresso over them instead of soaking them for too long.

The creamy filling is made with mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, Splenda, and vanilla extract. The whipped cream is folded into the sweetened mascarpone mixture to create a creamy filling for the tiramisu.

The tiramisu is assembled by layering the espresso-treated ladyfingers with the mascarpone cream. After the final layer of cream, the top is dusted with unsweetened cocoa powder. The dessert then needs to chill for several hours, with overnight chilling recommended in the recipe for the best texture.

Thank You for 100 Subscribers!

I am so thankful for everyone who has watched my videos, subscribed to my channel, left comments, shared my content, or simply taken the time to stop by and spend a few minutes with me.

Bariatric Living with Lisa is about more than just recipes. It is about finding ways to enjoy food, creating healthier versions of recipes, sharing bariatric-friendly ideas, and enjoying life along the way.

I am so excited to see where this journey takes us next!

Thank you for being part of the Bariatric Living with Lisa family. ❤️

Here’s to the next milestone! 🎉💯

Watch the Celebration Video

Come celebrate 100 subscribers with me and watch me make this High-Protein Low-Carb Tiramisu!

Lisa’s High Protein Low Carb Tiramisu

Nut-Free Keto Ladyfingers Recipe

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 21 ladyfingers [12]

Ingredients

  • 5 large eggs, separated (room temperature), but really needed 6 large eggs, separated.
  • ½ cup coconut flour, sifted
  • ½ cup Splenda (divided into two ¼-cup portions)
  • ¼ cup unflavored whey protein powder (helps provide structure so they don’t deflate), but really could use less, about a 1/8 cup.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize the egg whites)
  • Pinch of salt [6, 7, 13, 14, 15]

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. [6, 12, 16]
  2. Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt and the cream of tartar using an electric mixer until foamy. Slowly rain in ¼ cup of your sweetener, whipping continuously until you achieve very stiff peaks. Set aside. [6, 7, 17, 18, 19]
  3. Beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl with the remaining ¼ cup of sweetener and vanilla extract for 3–4 minutes until thick, pale, and ribbons form. [6, 7, 20]
  4. Combine the dry ingredients by whisking the sifted coconut flour and whey protein powder together in a small bowl. [6, 21]
  5. Gently fold the mixtures together. Use a rubber spatula to fold a third of the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture. Alternating in batches, gently fold in a portion of the flour mixture and the remaining egg whites. Mix very gently to avoid deflating the air bubbles. [6, 22]
  6. Pipe the ladyfingers by transferring the batter into a pastry bag fitted with a wide, round tip. Pipe 3-inch long logs onto your lined baking sheet, leaving an inch between each one. [6, 12, 23, 24]
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the tops feel lightly springy. [6, 25]
  8. Cool completely on the baking sheet before moving them. They will crisp up slightly as they cool down. [6, 26, 27]

Pro Tips for Success

  • Sift the Flour: Coconut flour is notoriously clumpy. Sifting it ensures it incorporates smoothly without leaving chalky pockets in your delicate batter.
  • Watch the Coffee Soak: If you are using these for a keto tiramisu, dip them into the espresso quickly. Coconut flour sponges soak up liquid much faster than wheat or almond flour versions and can fall apart if left submerged for more than a second or two. [1, 6, 7, 28, 29]

2. The Espresso Dip Strategy

Coconut flour acts like a dense sponge. If you submerge these ladyfingers like traditional wheat ones, they will dissolve into paste. [4]

  • The Technique: Do not submerge them. Instead, pour your espresso into a wide, shallow bowl. Take a ladyfinger and drop it into the liquid, counting “one” (about 0.5 seconds), flip it instantly, count “two”, and remove it immediately. [4, 8, 9]
  • Alternative Method: Lay all your baked ladyfingers flat in your Tiramisu dish first. Use a pastry brush or a teaspoon to gently drizzle the espresso over each cookie. This gives you total control over the moisture. [10, 11]
  • Sweetening the Espresso: Add 2 tablespoons of Granulated Splenda directly into your warm espresso before dipping to counteract the intense bitterness. [10, 11]

3. Making the Splenda Mascarpone Cream

To complete your Keto Tiramisu, replace the traditional sugar in the cream filling using this quick keto assembly: [12]

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (250g) Mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup Heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • cup Granulated Splenda
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting) [4, 8, 10, 13, 14]

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  2. Blend the cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature mascarpone cheese and the ⅓ cup of Splenda together until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream into the sweet mascarpone mixture using a rubber spatula until combined.
  4. Assemble: Layer your lightly-espresso-soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a dish. Spread half the cream on top. Add a second layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining cream.
  5. Chill: Dust the top generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours (overnight is best). This chilling window is mandatory for coconut flour ladyfingers to set firmly and mimic the texture of traditional Tiramisu.

What should I make to celebrate the next milestone? Let me know in the comments! 💬

Soft & Delicious Cottage Cheese Protein Cookies

If you’re craving cookies but want something a little healthier, these Cottage Cheese Protein Cookies are going to become one of your favorites!

I know cottage cheese in cookies might sound unusual, but trust me—it creates a wonderfully soft texture while adding extra protein. Combined with rolled oats, peanut butter, and sugar-free salted caramel syrup, these cookies are hearty, satisfying, and naturally sweet without tasting “healthy.”

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how simple it is. Everything mixes together in one bowl, and they’re ready in just minutes. The biggest tip is not to overbake them. Pull them from the oven after about 11 minutes, and they’ll stay soft and tender inside.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
  • ¼ cup Salted Caramel Skinny Syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: Sugar-free chocolate chips or raisins

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix together the cottage cheese, oats, and peanut butter.
  3. Stir in the Skinny Syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until a thick dough forms.
  4. Fold in chocolate chips or raisins if desired.
  5. Scoop the dough onto the baking sheet using a small cookie scoop.
  6. Flatten each cookie slightly since they won’t spread much while baking.
  7. Bake for 11 minutes.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool for 5–10 minutes before enjoying.

My Tips

  • Blend the cottage cheese first if you’d like a smoother cookie.
  • Don’t overbake them—they’re best when they’re still soft in the center.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an easy grab-and-go protein snack.

These cookies are a wonderful option for anyone following a bariatric lifestyle, trying to increase their protein intake, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment on the YouTube video and let me know if you added sugar-free chocolate chips, raisins, or another fun mix-in.

Happy baking!

– Lisa ❤️ | Bariatric Living with Lisa

Espresso + Dates = Caramel!

I’d love to share one of my newest coffee discoveries because it honestly surprised me!

Like many of you, I’ve been seeing the viral date caramel coffee everywhere online. At first, I wasn’t sure if dates could really create a caramel flavor, but after trying it myself, I completely understand why this recipe has become so popular.

The process is simple. I soaked pitted dates in freshly brewed espresso for a few hours until they became nice and soft. Then I used an immersion blender to blend everything together into a smooth, thick caramel consistency. It looks just like homemade caramel sauce!

Next, I filled a glass with ice and poured in about 8 ounces of Fairlife milk. If you’re looking to add even more protein, you can easily substitute your favorite Fairlife protein shake instead.

To make this drink extra special, I whipped up a quick cold foam using heavy cream and a drizzle of Salted Caramel Skinny Syrup. After frothing it until light and fluffy, I poured it over the coffee and finished everything with a sprinkle of salted caramel seasoning.

The result is a creamy, naturally sweet coffee with wonderful caramel flavor—without relying on refined sugar. The dates provide the sweetness while also adding fiber and a rich, almost buttery texture.

If you’re living a bariatric lifestyle but still enjoy treating yourself to specialty coffees, this recipe is definitely one to try. It’s easy to customize, tastes indulgent, and feels like something you’d order from your favorite coffee shop.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Let me know in the comments on YouTube, and don’t forget to subscribe to Bariatric Living with Lisa for more high-protein recipes, coffee creations, and bariatric-friendly inspiration.

Fluffy Cottage Cheese Blueberry Cloud Bread (Bariatric-Friendly)

One of my favorite things to do is test viral recipes to see if they’re actually worth making—and this Fluffy Cottage Cheese Blueberry Cloud Bread definitely caught my attention!

Since cottage cheese has become such a popular high-protein ingredient, I couldn’t resist giving this recipe a try.

The Changes I Made

I rarely follow a recipe exactly, and this one was no exception.

Instead of powdered sweetener, I used Splenda, which worked perfectly. I also skipped the lemon zest because I didn’t have any on hand. After tasting the finished bread, I think the lemon zest would have added a wonderful fresh flavor, so I’ll definitely include it next time.

Another big change was the pan. Rather than using an 8-inch baking dish, I baked mine in a pan with six individual round wells. Because the portions were smaller, I lowered the oven temperature to 325°F and baked them for about 20 minutes.

They came out light, fluffy, and beautifully golden.

My Thoughts

This recipe has a texture that’s somewhere between a soufflé, cloud bread, and a light sponge cake. It’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert.

The blueberries add little bursts of sweetness throughout each bite, and the cottage cheese blends so smoothly that you would never know it’s there.

If I make this again—and I definitely will—I’ll add the lemon zest for a little extra brightness.

Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • ½ cup full-fat cottage cheese, blended smooth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon Splenda
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup fresh blueberries

Optional:

  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 100
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fat: 5g

If you’re looking for another fun, high-protein recipe to add to your meal plan, this one is definitely worth trying. It’s simple to make, light, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite berries.

Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to visit my YouTube channel, Bariatric Living with Lisa, for more bariatric-friendly recipes, meal ideas, and realistic weight-loss lifestyle content.

Cooking with Chris: Easy Rotisserie Chicken Stir-Fry

One of my favorite things about this new Cooking with Chris series is showing just how simple home cooking can be.

In this episode, Chris and I turned leftover rotisserie chicken into a quick stir-fry dinner packed with colorful vegetables and protein. This is one of those easy meals that feels wholesome, tastes amazing, and helps make the most of what you already have.

The combination of bell peppers, broccoli, frozen mixed vegetables, and tender chicken makes this recipe super versatile. The homemade stir-fry sauce adds just the right balance of savory, sweet, and a little warmth from the ginger.

For the bariatric lifestyle, this recipe works beautifully because you can:

  • focus on the chicken first for protein
  • load up on the veggies
  • serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
  • use it for meal prep leftovers

It’s budget-friendly, family-friendly, and beginner-friendly—which made it the perfect recipe for Chris to learn.

I hope this inspires you to turn simple ingredients into something delicious for your family too.

Easy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

High-Protein | Low-Carb | Bariatric-Friendly

If you’re missing creamy Alfredo pasta but trying to stay on track with your bariatric lifestyle, this recipe is going to make you so happy.

This Spaghetti Squash Chicken Broccoli Alfredo gives you all the creamy, cheesy comfort — without the heavy carbs from traditional pasta. And the best part? It’s easy. No homemade sauce required.

As someone living the bariatric lifestyle, I love recipes that:

  • Prioritize protein
  • Keep carbs lower
  • Use convenient ingredients
  • Fit real life

This recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

  • 1 spaghetti squash
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & pepper
  • 1 jar Alfredo sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 bag frozen broccoli florets
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place face down on a baking sheet and bake for 30–40 minutes.
  5. While squash is baking, heat jarred Alfredo sauce in a saucepan.
  6. Stir in shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy.
  7. Microwave broccoli according to package directions and stir into sauce.
  8. Once squash is tender, shred the inside with a fork.
  9. Mix spaghetti squash strands into the Alfredo mixture until well coated.
  10. Spoon mixture back into squash shells.
  11. Top with shredded rotisserie chicken, mozzarella, and parmesan.
  12. Return to oven and bake until bubbly and golden.

Why This Works for Bariatric Living

  • Spaghetti squash replaces traditional pasta
  • Rotisserie chicken makes hitting protein goals easier
  • Broccoli adds fiber and volume
  • Portion-controlled “boats” help prevent overeating

This is comfort food made smarter — and easier.

If you try it, let me know! And if you’re on this journey too, you are NOT alone. ❤️

Refreshing Sugar-Free Protein Drink Hack

If you’re tired of drinking plain protein shakes, this simple protein drink hack is about to become your new favorite. It’s light, refreshing, sugar-free, and completely customizable — perfect for bariatric life or anyone focused on high-protein, low-carb living.

One of the biggest challenges after surgery (or during weight loss) is finding ways to enjoy protein without getting bored. This drink feels more like a fun, flavored refresher than a traditional protein shake — and it’s incredibly easy to make.

🥤 Protein Drink Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sugar-free drink packets (any flavors you love)
  • A small amount of water
  • Ice
  • 1–2 splashes of sugar-free syrup (optional)
  • 1 ready-to-drink protein shake

Directions:

  1. Add the drink packets to a cup with a small amount of water and stir until fully dissolved.
  2. Fill the cup with ice.
  3. Add a splash or two of sugar-free syrup if desired.
  4. Pour in your protein shake.
  5. Stir well and enjoy!

Flavor Combo I Used

  • Welch’s Cherry Pomegranate
  • Sonic Ocean Water

This combo is fruity, refreshing, and perfect for warmer days — but the possibilities are endless.

💡 Why This Works for Bariatric Life

  • Helps increase protein intake
  • Encourages hydration
  • Sugar-free and low-carb
  • Easy on the stomach
  • Totally customizable

If you try this protein drink, let me know your favorite flavor combo! And be sure to follow Bariatric Living for more protein-forward recipes and tips that make this lifestyle easier — and more enjoyable.

Bariatric-Friendly Finds at Buc-ee’s: Protein-Packed Road Trip Snacks & a Sweet Surprise!

If you’ve ever been on a long road trip, you know how tough it can be to find healthy, protein-forward options at gas stations. But on my recent vacation, I stopped at the legendary Buc-ee’s, and wow — it completely changed how I look at road trip food stops!

When I walked in, I was instantly blown away by the size and variety of this place. It’s not your average convenience store — it’s more like a highway superstore filled with snacks, fresh food, and fun finds.

I started by checking out their White Cheddar Nug-ee’s, which are a crunchy, flavorful treat if you want something light. Then I discovered the massive coffee and tea station — perfect if you bring your protein shake or powder along to make a quick protein coffee!

To my surprise, Buc-ee’s also had yogurt parfaits, salads, and fruit cups — all fresh and easy to grab for a healthier meal on the go. And of course, no visit would be complete without exploring their World-Famous Wall of Jerky. There are so many high-protein options to choose from, including freshly made jerky in their deli display case.

And yes… I did treat myself to their famous Banana Pudding — and it was absolutely worth it!

Whether you’re traveling post-bariatric surgery or just looking for smarter road trip choices, Buc-ee’s has more to offer than you might expect. So next time you see one on the highway, stop in and explore — you’ll be surprised how easy it is to stay on track and still enjoy the journey!